Campaign begins to save seniors from falling

Startling statistics on falls by older people have prompted action from a Bunbury-based health support agency.

Enable WA is encouraging South West residents to consider its Stay on Your Feet campaign so families are prepared for a loved-one’s unexpected fall.

Health data revealed by the not-for-profit organisation shows one in three West Australians over 65 will experience a fall each year.

The organisation is teaming up with the Injury Control Council of WA and the Department of Health for the campaign for the first time and is encouraging adults, family members and carers to order free posters and plans providing information on how to avoid or recover from a fall.

WA nursing and development officer Annemaree Stevens said one conversation and a simple plan was all that was needed.

“Adults with a disability, mental or short term illness are also more at risk of slips, trips and falls,” she said.

The posters and plans have been designed by Stay on Your Feet campaign team members, as part of a Statewide falls prevention program to reduce falls in the community.

Falls are the leading cause of hospitalisation in the State, according to Enable WA.

Ms Stevens said it was important to remember falls were not part of ageing and were preventable.

Call the team on 1300 303 540 to order the free “Up Off The Floor” posters and “Falls Action Plan”.